Austria, Switzerland, and Qatar Announce California World Cup Hotels

Austria's team will stay at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, while Qatar opts for the more budget-friendly Courtyard Marriott.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Three international soccer teams have chosen California as their base camp for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Austria will stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, costing up to $4,000 per room per night, while Qatar opted for the cheaper $400 per night Courtyard Marriott nearby. The Swiss team will stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar near San Diego, setting them back around $900 for a standard suite per day.

Why it matters

The choice of hotels highlights the vastly different approaches teams are taking to prepare for the World Cup. While Austria is going all-out with luxury accommodations, Qatar is taking a more budget-conscious approach. The Swiss have found a middle ground, opting for a high-end resort but at a lower price point than Austria's selection.

The details

Austria's head coach Ralf Rangnick said Santa Barbara was his "absolute top choice" due to the "first-class training facilities and the perfect environment." The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers amenities like turn-down service, ocean views, fireplaces, and a luxury spa. Meanwhile, Qatar will train at nearby Westmont College and stay at the more modest Courtyard Marriott. The Swiss team will have access to the famous Torrey Pines golf course and a Michelin-star restaurant at their Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort.

  • The FIFA World Cup is scheduled for June 2026.
  • Austria, Switzerland, and Qatar announced their California hotel choices in February 2026.

The players

Ralf Rangnick

The head coach of the Austrian national soccer team.

Julen Lopetegui

The newly appointed Spanish manager of the Qatar national soccer team.

Murat Yakin

The head coach of the Swiss national soccer team.

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What they’re saying

“Santa Barbara was my absolute top choice – because of the first-class training facilities and the perfect environment that awaits the team.”

— Ralf Rangnick, Head Coach, Austrian National Team

“The choice of Santa Barbara highlights the Qatar Football Association's focus on optimal preparation.”

— Julen Lopetegui, Manager, Qatar National Team

“We wanted a place where we could relax, recharge, train to the best of our ability.”

— Murat Yakin, Head Coach, Swiss National Team

What’s next

The teams will continue their preparations in California ahead of the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June.

The takeaway

The vastly different hotel choices made by Austria, Switzerland, and Qatar highlight the diverse approaches teams are taking to prepare for the World Cup. While Austria is going all-in on luxury, Qatar is taking a more budget-conscious route, and Switzerland has found a middle ground.